Report

From proximity to inclusion: A new framework for urban green space policy

This report from UK think tank Institute for Policy Research sets out an implementation pathway for inclusive governance.

Urban green spaces in UK cities are vital to health and wellbeing and provide multiple benefits across many areas of city life. However, access remains unequal, especially for marginalised communities including people with disabilities, ethnic minorities, the elderly and children, and people living in areas of high deprivation. These groups face accessibility barriers that can be addressed through structural changes to the governance of parks.

This policy brief sets out a new implementation pathway for inclusive governance. The policy and structural changes recommended mainly relate to linking park funding streams to health funding, given the multiple benefits these spaces provide; addressing the lack of statutory status for parks within local authority governance; securing maintenance funds alongside initial project funds; and formalising the roles of community groups in park governance.